Real Estate Investing in Lost Nation, Iowa (52254)
Everything the listing leaves out — vacancy, rent trend, cap rate, landlord climate. All free.
Should you buy in 52254 (Lost Nation, IA)? Our answer, based on the numbers below.
Mixed signals — some positives, some negatives. Worth considering but not a slam-dunk.
A cash-flow market — rent-to-price math works from day one, though value growth is modest. Great for income-focused investors.
- High vacancy: 12.8% of homes vacant — above national norms.
• Modeled rent — no observed market rent for this ZIP; the figure is estimated from HUD fair-market rent.
What’s happening in Lost Nation, IA (52254)?
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Market Analysis: 52254 Lost Nation
The 52254 ZIP in Lost Nation, IA is a local-operator market. Outside capital chasing a $166K entry has to pair deep knowledge with the discount.
Stepping back, the numbers look inviting — $166K purchase price, 0.0% nominal cap — the work to hit that pro forma in 52254 is substantial and deserves full respect.
Statewide comparisons place 52254 among IA's softer markets. That context does not make the ZIP uninvestable, but it does raise the bar for due diligence.
The demographic picture in 52254 includes headwinds that any investor should price in. Income distribution skews lower than Lost Nation averages, and tenant stability requires active management.
leans the ZIP is not uninvestable, but it is unforgiving. Section 8 landlords, local operators, and specialized value-add funds are the investor types that tend to succeed.
Here's what matters if you're considering buying a home in Lost Nation:
Property Strategy for 52254
Which property type performs best in this market?
📊 Compare All Property Types →
| Type | Median Value | Est. Rent | Cap Rate | 5yr CAGR | $/Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2BR | $111,789 | $1,220 | 7.9% | +4.2% | $55,894 |
| 3BR | $181,363 | $1,510 | 6.0% | +5.3% | $60,454 |
Market Trends
Home Value History (with trend line)
📊 How Does 52254 Compare?
| Metric | 52254 | Lost Nation | Clinton, IA | Iowa |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home Value | $165,877 | $165,877 | N/A | $227,232 |
| 5-Year CAGR | 4.7% | 4.7% | N/A | 6.0% |
| Avg Rent | $1,098 | $1,098 | N/A | - |
| Cap Rate | 5.2% | 5.2% | - | - |
Similar ZIPs Within 25 Miles
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Landlord Ground Truth
Real numbers from people who own or manage rentals in ZIP 52254 (Lost Nation, IA). Anonymous, moderated, never written by AI.
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📊 Market Snapshot
| Home Value | $165,877 |
| Monthly Rent | $1,098 |
| Price-to-Rent | 12.6:1 |
| 1% Rule | ✗ Fails |
💰 Return Metrics
| Gross Yield | 7.9% |
| Cap Rate | 5.2% |
| 5-Year IRR | 9.8% |
📈 Home Appreciation
| 1-Year | +13.3% ▲ |
| 3-Year CAGR | +3.5% ▲ |
| 5-Year CAGR | +4.7% ▲ |
| 10-Year CAGR | N/A |
🏠 Rent Trends
| 1-Year | N/A |
| 3-Year CAGR | N/A |
| 5-Year CAGR | N/A |
The current 30-yr mortgage rate (6.8%) exceeds the estimated cap rate (5.2%). Financing reduces your cash-on-cash return below the cap rate. Markets like this may still make sense as IRR plays — factoring in appreciation, depreciation, and a future refinance when rates drop.
Run an IRR Analysis →⚠️ Risk Signals
Composite view of factors that can impact a ZIP's stability and your downside risk.
Demographics in 52254
Population: 1,000
Crime & Safety
Crime & Safety Data Coming Soon
We're integrating comprehensive crime statistics including violent crime rates, property crime, and safety scores to help you make informed investment decisions.
Expected: Q1 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What do landlords charge for rent in Lost Nation, IA?
The typical rental in Lost Nation, IA commands about $1,098/mo monthly. That rent profile consistent cash flow against the $166K purchase basis.
What are home prices like in Lost Nation, IA?
In Lost Nation, IA the median home value sits at $166K. Against the broader IA market, that reads as reasonable for most investors.
Should investors consider Lost Nation, IA?
Yes - Lost Nation, IA a 3.0/5 investability score. With $166K home prices against $1,098/mo monthly rent, the market delivers a reasonable entry point for new investors.
Which real estate strategy fits Lost Nation, IA?
Lost Nation, IA investors pursuing careful cash-flow rentals with hands-on management. The underlying economics ($166K prices, $1,098/mo rents) make it a reasonable choice.
Are there empty rentals in Lost Nation, IA?
Vacancy risk in Lost Nation, IA is elevated. That supports predictable cash flow for typical rental holds.
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How 52254 ranks in Clinton, IA
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